Languages at Primary
Primary
Primary pupils 'Say Yes to Languages'
Say Yes to Languages aims to give pupils and teachers a taste of what it means to integrate additional languages alongside English and Irish. The module has grown considerably over the past four years, with over 1,300 schools and 85,000 pupils taking part in 2024/25.
Languages selected by schools have continued to diversify and grow. The number of primary teachers delivering the module in their schools has also increased with more teachers availing of foreign language upskilling opportunities.
In 2025/26, the module moves into phase 2 and is being offered to pupils in 5th and 6th class and being delivered over a 10 week term. Applications for 2025/2026 are now closed and schools have been informed.
More information is available in the Department of Education Circular 0031/2025.
The aims of Phase 2 of Say Yes to Languages are to:
- Raise awareness of the importance of modern foreign language education to build transversal skills
- Prepare the ground for the implementation of the redeveloped Primary Language Curriculum
- Encourage uptake of languages at post-primary level
- Support implementation of Languages Connect, Ireland’s Strategy for Foreign Languages in Education 2017–2026
- Improve literacy in English and Irish
Teachers & Tutors
Schools are encouraged to nominate a teacher on staff to deliver the module. Where no member of staff is available to deliver the module, schools may engage visiting tutors. Training for all teachers/tutors is provided by Post-Primary Languages Ireland (PPLI), with resources and additional supports made available to all participating schools.
Discover how schools have engaged with and benefited from Say Yes to Languages here.
For more information on Say Yes to Languages, please visit the FAQs page or contact primary@ppli.ie.
